In a message to police members he said: ‘The tone of her comments was deliberately misleading and suggested we were building some kind of investment portfolio. I want to clarify the position.

‘Hampshire Police Federation has invested in two welfare cottages which are located in the New Forest.

‘These cottages have been funded by members for the benefit of members and their families who have been through difficult times.

‘We support officers in times of need and these welfare breaks have been described by those who have used them as a lifeline.

‘In addition to the welfare cottages, we have invested in gym equipment for the new force gyms. We have commissioned a memorial to fallen officers, the first time the constabulary will have ever had one.

‘This is not a federation wasting money, this is your federation doing what it should be, looking after those it represents and making sure those who pay the ultimate sacrifice are never forgotten.’

Mrs May’s comments were made last week at the Police Federation of England and Wales’ annual conference in Bournemouth.

Speaking to the conference she said: ‘Member subscriptions are not a slush fund for the Fed or pocket money for its officials.’